2023 NBA Mock Draft: Mavericks land difference-maker, Victor Wembanyama heads East

29. Indiana Pacers (via Celtics) acquire Julian Strawther

The Pacers have three first-round picks, and they have already selected Taylor Hendricks and Gregory Jackson II in this draft. Indiana is looking to build around Tyrese Haliburton and Myles Turner, so wings and forwards are the focus. The Pacers already have a ton of upside, and it feels like they will go with an older and safer prospect with the 29th overall selection.

Strawther averaged 15.2 points, 6.2 rebounds, and 1.3 assists in 31.2 minutes during his junior season at Gonzaga. The 6’7 wing shot over 40 percent from 3-point and helped the Bulldogs reach the Elite Eight before they lost to the eventual NCAA champion UConn Huskies.

He is the type of player head coach Rick Carlisle loves. Strawther is a plus-shooter that keeps improving. The 21-year-old should be able to come in and be a catch-and-shoot option immediately. He plays hard on the defensive end of the floor with a plus IQ, but Strawther will likely struggle out of the gate.

Julian Strawther should be a rotation player in the NBA for the next decade-plus. He does not have a massive upside, but he is a safe option that could quickly help a contender.